In gene disorder, B12 can’t get to cells

Scientists have identified a key gene in the transport of vitamins to cells—and discovered a genetic disease related to vitamin B12 deficiency.

This discovery will lead to the early diagnosis of this serious genetic disorder and has given us new paths to explore treatment options. It also helps explain how vitamin B12 functions in the body, even for those without the disorder,” says David Rosenblatt, study author and a scientist in medical genetics and genomics at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre.

Vitamin B12 is found in animal-based foods, but not vegetables, and is essential for human health.